Volvo Wins 2018 European Car of the Year Title for XC40
Volvo earns European Car of the Year title for first time

As Volvo continues to push the limits on design, luxury, technology and safety features, the automaker is achieving notable milestones. The most recent and perhaps most impressive achievement is the 2018 European Car of the Year title, which was bestowed upon the all-new Volvo XC40.

“Winning this award with our new XC40 is perfect timing,” said Håkan Samuelsson, president and CEO of Volvo Cars. “Volvo now has three globally available SUVs in its range for the first time. The XC40 will be a strong contributor to further growth, taking us into a new and fast-growing small SUV segment.”

In addition to the prestigious Car of the Year award, the XC40 represents remarkable firsts for the automaker. The XC40 is equipped with car-sharing technology. With a “digital key,” Volvo owners can “share” their vehicle with a trusted friend or family member without the need of a key. Volvo’s newest compact modular architecture (CMA), which will set the structure for future vehicles in the 40 Series, is also exhibited by the XC40.

The release of the XC40 also launched a new way to get behind the wheel of a Volvo.

“In another first, the XC40 launched Volvo Cars’ new subscription service, Care by Volvo, which offers cars access via a monthly flat-free subscription rather than ownership. Care by Volvo makes having a car as transparent, easy and hassle free as having a phone,” reports Volvo.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 is equipped with a 2-0-liter in-line four-cylinder turbocharged engine mated to an eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission, a powertrain that generates 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It features smart storage solutions under the seats and in the doors: the tunnel console is outfitted with a removable trash container and small bags can stay organized and in place due to the foldout hook in the XC40.

The 2019 XC40 also features technology to facilitate the needs of drivers and passengers who want to stay connected while on the road. Smartphone integration is simple with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ compatibility, while SiriusXM® Satellite Radio delivers limitless music, news and entertainment options.

Driver assist technologies in the XC40 show Volvo’s commitment to safety on the road. Advanced safety features available in the XC40 include the Pilot Assist system with Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert, Park Assist Pilot and Park Assist and Rear Collision Mitigation Support. Oncoming Lane Mitigation, Lane Keeping Aid, Volvo On Call with Sharing and a Rear Park Assist Camera come as standard safety features.

In addition to outfitting vehicles will cutting-edge technology and design, Volvo is determined to electrify its 2019 models and beyond. That includes the award-winning XC40, which will feature a 100 percent electric powertrain and a hybrid option in the future.

“We have a clear strategy for growth, and we are committed to leading in automotive safety, connectivity services and electrification,” said Samuelsson.

The all-new XC40, which has already and will continue to set high standards for Volvo, has also been lauded as the “Car of the Year” from What Car?, an automotive publication in the United Kingdom.